Read Hart of the Matter (A Love of the Game Novella) for Free Online Page B

exactly how she looked.  Every article of clothing was intended to highlight exactly what he was missing.  Either he’d give her what she wanted or she’d torture him for fun.
    The choice was his.
    Seeing her tanned and sleek legs bared from her polished toes to the hem of the skirt, knowing now just how far her waxing went, made him glance down at his jeans and untucked Tommy Bahama shirt to make sure his appreciation wasn’t showing. 
    She wore very little makeup and her long hair was loose except for two small sections in front that were pulled back with a clip.  Hart was crazy about long hair.
    Harley came in the kitchen, dressed similarly but wearing flats, and they put on music while Hart checked messages on his Blackberry.  She knew he watched her behind his shades as she worked Harley through a few simple moves. 
    “I’m so much slower and less flexible than I used to be.  Let’s see how it goes.”  His sister pulled him out to his truck and she followed, feeling relaxed for the first time in a long time.  “Bailey, you sit up front so I can stretch my leg.” 
    With a shrug, Bailey climbed into the passenger seat as Hart held the door for her.  When she settled in the high vehicle and didn’t immediately straighten her skirt, he tugged it down for her. 
    “Thanks, Hart.”  He mumbled and closed her door.  “He’s running, Harley.  I feel so powerful .”
    Harley snickered from the backseat and blanked her expression as her brother climbed in. 
    They had a quick dinner at a little bistro not far from a Latin club she’d found out about from the techs at the spa.  She specifically asked for hot music and they’d been happy to make suggestions.
    She and Harley kept their legs perfectly crossed during dinner as Regina taught them. 
    Their demure behavior earned appreciative looks from every single male in the place.  Eyes roved over their tone thighs and calves up to take in the cleavage both women had on display. 
    At one point, she met Hart’s eyes and he looked annoyed.  Lifting her brow in challenge, he glanced away.
    Step up, Hart.  For once, acknowledge what you want.
    Several people recognized Hart, one of the local heroes who finally brought them the coveted Championship.  He signed several autographs and took photos. 
    A few men weren’t nearly as interested in basketball as they were in the two women with him.  They tried a few cute lines, trying to hook up. 
    The women introduced themselves politely, using their first names only. 
    When one lifted Bailey’s hand and kissed it over the rail that divided the dining area from the bar, Hart snarled, “Dude, I’m sitting right here.”
    The fan stumbled out apologies and Hart refused to look at either of them.  He paid the tab, helped them from their chairs, and placed his hand at their low backs to guide them from the restaurant. 
    A man at the bar asked which one Hart was with and he snapped, “They are not available.” 
    Outside, Bailey shook her finger at him.  “Harley is your sister and you think of me the same way, so you could allow us to flirt, Hart.  We spent time getting pretty and it would be nice for someone to appreciate it.  As far as you’re concerned, we might as well be in flannel nightgowns.” 
    With that, she walked away with her heels clicking to the club just ahead.  She spoke to the bouncer whose eyes rolled down her body and found her very much up to snuff.  He lifted the velvet rope to allow her in and she told him clearly that she was waiting for her brother and sister. 
    The bouncer glanced up and his eyes went wide. 
    “ Hart Jamison …welcome.  The VIP lounge is available if you like.  Let us know if you need anything.”  Hart inclined his head and gently took Bailey’s upper arm just inside the club. 
    He pulled her close to whisper in her ear.  “Did you just call me your brother?”
    Someone was irate to be called on his shit.  How cute.
    “Hart, isn’t that